I do both, Depends who I am with and what the seasons are. I often run up Friday afternoon and sleep in the trailer and ride someplace on Saturday.

But several times each summer we pack in to remote lakes to fish and set up camp near the lakes. And of course Elk and Deer hunting, we pack in camp and leave it set up for a month and we come and go as work allows us.

My daughter setting up a tent during a summer fishing trip

Fall hunting camp. This is about 7 miles in from where we park the truck.

I really prefer camping, because it allows for longer days of riding without having to do all the loading, driving, unloading before and after the ride. The trailer has a "weekender" LQ package, with a shower and toilet and fridge, and we put a king-size pillow top mattress in the gooseneck, so "camping" is pretty darned comfy. Plus, nothing can beat a good meal cooked outdoors, sitting around the campfire after a ride, etc.

Unfortunately, one of our horses was injured over the winter and is still "on the mend" so it's really cut back on our camping this year. Hoping to be back at it by this fall, but for now we're just keeping to day-rides.

We try to avoid day rides, hauling for short term tends to be a lot of work.
I like to leave work early on Friday have camp set up by 5:00pm and ride until dusk.
Get to see lots of deer and wildlife in the evening.
Saturdays are usually a longer day ride, I prefer two shorter rides morning and evening.
My horse seems to prefer only one longer ride though.
Sunday morning ride is a must and then we pack up.

Our downtime during the weekend is true R&R.
We try to plan large group meals, campfires at night, and a refreshing beverage.

I like to camp but I also like to take day trips too. Sometimes life's responsibilities only allow for a day ride, but we prefer to camp. As far as wildlife, we have encountered bear, deer, little critters, and while on a night ride once heard a loud "kitty" growl that made the hairs stand on my neck. We weren't sure if it was a cougar or bobcat but it was a cat.

I like both too. Camping lets me haul longer distances and then enjoy it once I get there. You do need horses that are trained to camp. There are lots of ways to confine your horse at camp and you cannot use the same system at every camping area. For instance you might high line at one site but at another there would be no trees to use for your highline. You can use electric fence some places but not all. It is grand fun but it does take some doing to fine the way that works best for you and your horse.

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